A special video project to entice shoppers back to the high street is being put together, and retailers across Stone have an opportunity to see their business included.
A montage of ‘selfie’ style clips will be edited into a one-off showcase, demonstrating how people across the town can #ShopSafelyinStaffs.
The project aims to support residents returning to town centres as the Government lockdown eases, and is part of a drive by Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub, working in partnership with district and borough councils.
Nicola Kent, Growth Hub Manager, said: “We are now in a transition period as lockdown restrictions ease. Businesses in Stone have taken steps to ensure their staff and customers are safe and are welcoming shoppers back to the high street.
“We are encouraging retailers to highlight what is on offer to people in their area and demonstrate how we can all #ShopSafelyinStaffs.”
The Growth Hub acts as a focal point for businesses in the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership area, driving strong, sustainable business growth and offering co-ordinated programmes, networks and groups alongside signposting to specialist information, advice and services.
Hundreds of local, independent businesses were forced to close their doors in March when the Government introduced a strict lockdown in a bid to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.
Shops labelled as ‘non-essential’ by the Government, including clothes, shoes, electricals, books and toys were able to re-open from Monday June 15, while pubs, restaurants and hairdressers are gearing-up to open their doors from July 4.
Nicola added: “We have a dedicated Covid-19 section on the Growth Hub website which summarises the issues that businesses need to consider and provides up-to-date information and advice to help companies plan their processes throughout the easing of lockdown and beyond.
“We also have a dedicated team of Growth Hub Advisors, who can support businesses during this time.”
The #ShopSafelyinStaffs video will help inform shoppers how they can stay safe and support the businesses that trade on their doorstep. A simple guide to creating a ‘selfie’ video clip for inclusion in the showcase is available at https://stokestaffsgrowthhub.co.uk/news/casting-call-for-shopsafelyinstaffs
Submit your selfie video clip via MailBigFile or WeTransfer to Becky Parker, Stoke-On-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub: businessenquiries@stokestaffslep.org.uk.
The Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub offers a wealth of support and resources for businesses online at: stokestaffsgrowthhub.co.uk as well as offering a newsletter and business helpline: 0300 111 8002.
